LA Survival Guide
Say what you will about Los Angeles, but having spent all twenty-two years of my life living here, I can confidently say that it is one of the greatest and most unique cities in the world. With an endless array of neighborhoods encompassed within, there is undoubtedly something out there for everyone.
Where To Stay
Classics & Cult Favorites…
Include: The Beverly Hills Hotel, The Peninsula, Hotel Bel Air, Chateau Marmont, Montage, and Shutters on the Beach
Up & Coming/ Lesser Known…
The Proper. Although fairly new to the scene, this Santa Monica hotel has quickly become one of the hottest spots to stay. Inside you’ll find a mix of beachy and eclectic interiors, all of which are highly instagrammable. Take the elevator to the roof for a swim or to dine at “Calabra,” a fabulous Mediterranean restaurant.
The Edition. Conveniently located on the Sunset Strip, this uber modern hotel boasts perhaps the best rooftop pool in the city. Rumor has it there’s also an exclusive club to be found inside, complete with disco balls and music that’ll have you dancing all night long.
The Mondrian. A reasonably priced hotel by comparison, which is also located on the Sunset Strip. Head to the pool deck for a sceney dayclub type of vibe.
Kimpton La Peer. Centrally located and just steps away from Melrose Ave, this neighborhood hotel is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay if you’re looking to gain a true taste of LA.
Where To Shop
The Brentwood Country Mart. Arguably my favorite of all, this converted barn offers a shopping experience that is like no other. Make sure to pop into Gwenyth Paltrow’s GOOP to shop curated perfection, or cross the street to visit the Westside where you’ll find attire from cult favorites like Aviator Nation, Loveshackfancy, WeWoreWhat, and more. Hungry? Grab a bite to eat at either Farmshop, Reddi Chick (cash only), or Frida’s Mexican Cuisine, all located inside the “barn.”
Palisades Village. Visit the Palisades Village by Caruso for a mid to high-end shopping experience which is situated amongst uniform white buildings and perfectly manicured lawns. My favorites here include Anine Bing, Elyse Walker, the Little Market, and Zimmermann.
XIV Karats. A family owned jewelry heaven located in the heart of Beverly Hills which carries just about anything you can imagine, plus amazing customer service and the ability to customize.
Abbot Kinney. A great street in Venice for shopping at both large and small stores. Visit Principessa, a local boutique, for beach inspired attire.
Fred Segal. If trendy is your vibe, visit either one of two West Hollywood locations to find pieces from up & coming designers such as Danielle Guizio, Lisa Says Gah, Simonett, and Atoir. Pro tip: the one located on Sunset also has a KITH underneath it. Enter through the parking garage.
Melrose Trading Post at Fairfax High. (*ONLY ON SUNDAYS)- For all things vintage, plus tons of other unique goods handmade by local vendors. Not to mention the people watching and celebrity spotting is great here as well.
Taken at Melrose Trading Post at Fairfax High
Where To Eat
Classics & Cult Favorites…
Include: Jon & Vinny’s, Il Pastaio, CATCH LA, La Scala, Craig’s, EP+LP, Elephante, Laurel Hardware, Nobu Malibu, The Ivy, Ysabel, Alfred Coffee, Cha Cha Matcha
Taken at Cha Cha Matcha
Up & Coming/ Lesser Known…
Spartina- Don’t want to wait hours for a table at Il Pastaio? Try Spartina for equally incredible Italian fare, as it’s fairly easy to snag a reservation here.
Cara Hotel. Recently popularized by Tiktok, this Los Feliz hotspot offers not only fantastic food, but also fantastic ambiance.
Mauro’s Cafe at Fred Segal. Go for lunch and make sure to order the Fred's Pasta, as it is absolutely to die for. Need I say more?
Croft Alley. A trendy lunch spot with multiple locations. The menu is small, but there isn’t a single thing on it that disappoints. Personally, I usually go for the Avocado Toast or Tuna Melt, and of course an Arnold Palmer.
Cafe Habana Malibu. This cuban-inspired eatery co-owned by Rande Gerber offers some of the best elote I’ve ever had. Not to mention the Casamigos margaritas are an absolute MUST when dining here.
Looking for other things to do?
~ Hike Runyon Canyon
~ Murphy’s Ranch Trail
~ Visit the Griffith Observatory
~ Mulholland Scenic Overlook
~ Visit The Broad Museum
~ Bike the Santa Monica Boardwalk
By Gillian Goldsmith, USC ‘21